13 Family Dinners That Taste Like the Holidays

Gathering around the table for a family dinner during the holiday season is a tradition that brings everyone together. From savory roasts to comforting casseroles, the right meal can set the perfect tone for creating lasting memories. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to make the evening special, these festive dinner ideas are sure to fill your home with warmth and flavor. With rich, hearty dishes that evoke the spirit of the season, you’ll find the perfect recipes to make your holiday meals unforgettable.

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Roast Turkey with Herb Stuffing

A classic roast turkey with herb stuffing is a holiday dinner that never fails to impress. The turkey is seasoned with a mixture of butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage, which helps to create a crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. To start, rub the turkey with a generous amount of butter and seasoning, ensuring every inch is covered. For added flavor, stuff the bird with a savory stuffing made from cubed bread, onions, celery, garlic, and more fresh herbs. This stuffing absorbs the turkey’s natural juices as it roasts, resulting in a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich, golden bird.

For the stuffing, begin by sautéing diced onions, celery, and garlic in butter until softened. Then, toss in cubed bread (preferably a day or two old for the best texture) and fresh herbs. Moisten the mixture with a bit of chicken broth and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the turkey with the mixture and roast it in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 13 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The turkey should rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with mashed potatoes, gravy, and cranberry sauce for the ultimate holiday meal.

Honey Glazed Ham

A honey-glazed ham is a holiday favorite that adds a touch of sweetness to the savory meal. Begin with a bone-in ham, ideally around 8-10 pounds, as it will provide plenty of servings for the whole family. For the glaze, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes a smooth, thick glaze. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, which allows the glaze to seep into the meat, creating a caramelized exterior while roasting. Brush the glaze generously over the ham every 20-30 minutes as it cooks, ensuring it builds up a rich, sweet layer on the surface.

To prepare the ham, start by preheating the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the ham. During the last 30 minutes, increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) to allow the glaze to set and caramelize. After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to ensure it remains juicy. This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed sweet potatoes, or a simple green bean almondine. The sweetness of the glaze complements the salty ham, making each bite feel like a holiday celebration.

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that will impress any holiday guest. Start by searing a high-quality beef tenderloin in hot oil to create a golden crust, which locks in the flavor and juices. Once seared, coat the beef with a layer of Dijon mustard and let it cool. Then, prepare a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, garlic, and shallots, sautéed in butter to create a duxelles. Spread this mixture over the cooled beef and wrap it in a layer of prosciutto, ensuring the entire piece is covered. Finally, roll the beef in puff pastry, sealing the edges carefully before brushing the pastry with an egg wash.

To cook the Wellington, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the Wellington for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the internal temperature of the beef reaches 120-125°F for medium-rare. Let the Wellington rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to settle. Serve with rich sides like roasted potatoes, a creamy vegetable gratin, or a red wine reduction sauce to complement the beef.

Stuffed Pork Loin

Stuffed pork loin is a flavorful alternative to turkey, with its tender, juicy meat and savory stuffing. Start by making the stuffing, using a combination of breadcrumbs, sausage, apples, onions, and fresh herbs. Sauté the onions and apples in butter, then combine them with cooked sausage and breadcrumbs, adding a bit of chicken broth to moisten. Butterfly the pork loin by slicing it lengthwise, then gently open it up like a book. Spread the stuffing evenly inside the pork, roll it back up, and secure it with kitchen twine.

Roast the stuffed pork loin at 375°F (190°C) for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into thick medallions. This dish pairs well with a side of roasted carrots, mashed potatoes, or even a tangy apple sauce for an added burst of flavor.

Chicken Pot Pie

Nothing says comfort like a homemade chicken pot pie, which is perfect for the holidays when you want something hearty and satisfying. Start by making a creamy filling with cooked chicken, carrots, peas, celery, and onions, all sautéed in butter and flour to create a roux. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring to thicken the sauce. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper for added flavor. Once the filling has cooled slightly, transfer it into a pie crust and cover with another layer of pastry. Crimp the edges and cut slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Bake the pot pie at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The rich, creamy filling with flaky crust is sure to remind everyone of cozy holiday gatherings. Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Prime Rib Roast

A prime rib roast is a luxurious and flavorful option for a holiday dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Season the prime rib with a blend of garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning generously over the entire roast, ensuring it’s well-coated. For extra flavor, consider adding a bit of Dijon mustard or horseradish to the rub. Roast the prime rib at a low temperature, starting at 450°F (230°C) for 15 minutes to sear the outside, then reduce the temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) for rare, or 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.

Let the prime rib rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and a rich au jus. The tenderness and flavor of prime rib make it the perfect centerpiece for any holiday meal.

Lasagna

Lasagna is a comforting, hearty meal that can easily feed a large group during the holidays. Layered with ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella, this dish is a crowd favorite. Begin by making the meat sauce, sautéing ground beef with onions, garlic, and herbs before adding crushed tomatoes and simmering until thickened. In another bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg, Parmesan, and spinach or herbs. Layer the sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture in a baking dish, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.

Bake the lasagna at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting, allowing the layers to set. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad, offering the perfect balance of comfort and flavor.

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a comforting and rich dish that’s perfect for a family holiday gathering. Start by browning pieces of beef in a skillet and setting them aside. In a slow cooker, combine beef broth, onions, garlic, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, then add the beef. Let the mixture cook on low for about 6 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Near the end of cooking, stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, and some fresh parsley for added richness and flavor.

Serve the beef stroganoff over buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal. The slow cooker makes this a convenient option, allowing you to prepare other sides or desserts while the meal simmers away. This dish will quickly become a holiday favorite with its creamy, savory sauce and tender beef.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and flavorful holiday meal that offers a twist on traditional holiday fare. Start by making the filling with ground beef or turkey, rice, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and seasonings. Stuff the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers, topping each with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Bake the peppers at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese has melted.

These stuffed peppers are easily customizable, and you can even add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the filling. Pair with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad to round out the meal. The combination of hearty filling and tender peppers makes this a delicious and colorful holiday dish.

Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey tetrazzini is the perfect way to repurpose leftover turkey from your holiday feast into a creamy, comforting casserole. Start by making a creamy sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Add sautéed mushrooms and season with garlic and thyme for extra flavor. Mix the sauce with cooked pasta, leftover turkey, and peas, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

Bake the tetrazzini at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The creamy sauce and tender turkey make this a great way to enjoy leftovers while keeping the holiday spirit alive. Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Chicken and Dumplings

This classic dish is rich and hearty, perfect for the holiday season. To make the chicken and dumplings, start by cooking the chicken in a large pot, then remove the meat from the bones and set it aside. In the same pot, make a flavorful broth by simmering vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery with chicken broth and seasonings. Add the chicken back into the pot, then top with homemade dumplings made from flour, baking powder, and milk. Let the dumplings cook until fluffy, absorbing the flavors of the broth.

Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme for added color and flavor. The combination of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings makes this a cozy holiday meal, perfect for any cold winter night.

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for family gatherings. Made with a rich filling of ground lamb or beef, vegetables, and gravy, this dish is topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Begin by browning the meat with onions, garlic, and carrots, then add peas and a rich gravy made from beef or chicken broth. Spread the mixture into a baking dish, then top with mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly across the surface.

Bake the shepherd’s pie at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. The combination of savory meat and vegetables under a creamy potato topping makes this a perfect comfort food for the holidays.

Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is another Italian-inspired dish that is always a crowd-pleaser. This dish features ziti pasta baked with marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Begin by cooking the ziti and mixing it with marinara sauce, then stir in ricotta cheese and season with basil and oregano. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, topping it with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This dish can be served with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. The creamy, cheesy pasta is a comforting, hearty option that’s perfect for the holiday season.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.